Client Story: Pink Carat
April 6, 2021The journey
Pink Carat is a boutique jeweller in Unley specialising in custom-made jewellery, as well as jewellery inspections, repairs and remodelling. Owner Bevan Jones initially founded the business in early 2014, with just one part-time employee and himself as the only jeweller.
From the business’ humble beginnings, Pink Carat has since grown through client referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations. Today, Pink Carat employs five full-time staff members, bringing a combined total of 160 years’ experience in the jewellery industry to their clients.
Pink Carat is one of Adelaide’s only remaining traditional handmade jewellery businesses. This unique service allows Pink Carat to stand out from the crowd and provide their clients with an experience unlike anywhere else. Pink Carat has worked with local, national and international clients, making custom hand-made pieces to be cherished and enjoyed no matter the destination. Pink Carat continues to be one of Adelaide’s biggest Pink Diamond stockists, specialising in Australian Pink Argyle Diamond Jewellery and certified loose stone collections.
Since 2019, Pink Carat has been the official jeweller for the Santos Tour Down Under, making pieces for the likes of Phil Ligget, Richie Port, Fabian Cancellara, Anna Meares and four-time winner of the Women’s Tour Down Under, Amanda Spratt. “As a cyclist myself, I have been able to combine my passion for both cycling and jewellery to establish Pink Carat’s Out of The Saddle jewellery range. This venture has allowed me to work with well-known cycling athletes who have represented Australia in the Olympics and Commonwealth Games,” says Bevan.
Challenges and keys to success
Bevan notes that two of the company’s biggest challenges have been competing with online jewellery retailers and educating clients on product quality.
“Our quality and high standards are something I’m proud of, and think they’ve been reflected in the growth of Pink Carat over the last seven years of operation,” says Bevan. “We take the time to educate our clients about their purchases, ensuring customer satisfaction. This, however, cannot be achieved online and unfortunately, we have seen potential clients who were unsatisfied with their online purchases. Providing product quality to a high standard is paramount in my business but unfortunately is not always evident in commercial jewellery stores.”
He adds, “Whether it’s designing that perfect engagement ring, remodelling a cherished heirloom or simply buying a ready-made piece to wear, the team at Pink Carat provide an experience that leaves our clients feeling fulfilled.”
“You have to listen to customers and meet their needs,” he says. “We work with our clients to customise jewellery to fit any budget.”
Oreon’s role in the journey
Pink Carat has been an Oreon Partners client since 2007. Initially, Ben Reynolds met Bevan at a cycling group and the two eventually developed a business relationship, along with Andrew Raslan.
“Working with Andrew and Ben has been brilliant,” says Bevan. “From working with us to initialise Xero to answering quick questions that have arisen, they’ve always been able to come up with a solution.”
In addition to helping set up and train the staff on using Xero, Oreon worked with Bevan to restructure the business from a sole trader to a company. They’ve also assisted with year-end compliance, strategic advice, tax planning, cash flow projections and applications for government stimulus packages during the COVID crisis.
“Their support and accessibility have been fantastic,” Bevan states. “They’re always willing to help out and assist with queries, either from myself or staff members.”
Future business plans
Ultimately, Bevan hopes to open a second store location and release more custom and exclusive jewellery ranges for clients to enjoy. After its success so far, the company’s future will undoubtedly be sparkling! To see some of their beautiful jewellery please visit their website or their stunning shop in Unley.
